This is a KitchenAid original part. This Flat Beater is used as a mixing attachment for all six quart mixers and some five quart mixers. The Flat Beater is made from metal and has a burnished finish. This part attaches to the mixer on the planetary. The Flat Beater should be replaced if the coating has started to come off or if the arms have bent at all. It is recommended to wash this part by hand to prevent the coating coming off sooner.